
Teacher. Psychologist. Servant Leader.
Mads Bruce (she/her) is an Assistant Professor at Webster University, Clinical Consultant at UTHealth Houston’s Trauma and Resilience Center, and an Instructor at the Jefferson College Law Enforcement Academy. She is a licensed clinical psychologist with expertise in posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Her research focuses on improving evidence-based treatments for PTSD and as well as the impact of traumatic events occurring in institutional contexts. Outside of work, she enjoys ultra- swimming, running, and carb-loading, and she is the mother of 5 guinea pigs, 2 of whom are well-behaved.
About Me
I began my education knowing I wanted to be a provider who served underserved folks and taught others how to do the same. I first explored these interests through medicine, but once I started assisting in research, I had too much fun not to have it be part of my day. I sought more education in psychology, leading to a PhD in Clinical Psychology from Saint Louis University under the mentorship of Dr. Paul Handal. My experiences led to strong values in empiricism, bringing evidence-based treatments to all, and appreciating how societal systems impact folks, especially regarding traumatic experiences. These values were fostered during a Postdoctoral Research Fellowship at the Trauma and Resilience Center of UTHealth Houston under the mentorship of Dr. Ron Acierno.
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​At Webster, I lead the SCOTS lab (“Scots, wham Bruce has aften led!”). My students and I study many facets of trauma and its sequelae. Three themes emerge from this research program: 1) posttraumatic adjustment and identity and how these experiences impact social relationships and trajectories through evidence-based treatment; 2) identifying and rectifying institutional betrayal, or when organizations are expected to prevent and/or respond appropriately to trauma within its ranks and fail to do so; and 3) teaching about trauma and mental health in ways that center empiricism and diversity.
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I teach general and clinically-related courses in the Department of Psychology. I’ve come to believe Webster is a special place where our students are earnest, just-minded, and kind-hearted. It’s an honor to support students during their academic journey.
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Finally, I remain clinically active in treating PTSD and am recognized as a STRONG STAR Expert Provider in Prolonged Exposure, Cognitive Processing, Written Exposure, and Crisis Response Planning. I'm licensed in Missouri and am a PSYPACT Authorization Holder. This clinical experience directly informs my research and teaching so that more folks can receive high-quality care.
Appointments
2024-present
Assistant Professor
Webster University
2024-present
Clinical Consultant
UTHealth TRC
2023-2024
Postdoctoral Research Fellow
UTHealth TRC
Contact
(314)246-7071